The 20 week Anomaly Scan is an important detailed scan of the fetal anatomy, including placenta position, amniotic fluid and fetal growth.

At the beginning measurements will be made of the baby's head, brain, abdomen and legs. These will be plotted on a chart. We then continue a very thorough scan to check your baby's heart, brain, spine, bowel and limbs, to detect any abnormalities. This can never completely guarantee that the baby will be healthy, but it gives very strong reassurance. We also check the placenta, amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord. If you wish, you can find out the sex of your baby from this scan.

What is currently offered by the NHS?

Pregnant woman are offered two routine ultrasound scans: One at approximately 12 weeks and the other at 20 weeks of pregnancy. The 20 week anomaly scan is essentially the most important ultrasound during pregnancy. Women often come to have a scan with us as a result of the following:

Second opinion

More detailed scan

Calm and relaxing environment

As reassurance

If the woman missed her appointment or was on holidays at time of the NHS appointment

How is the scan done?

Anomaly scans are performed at 20-24 weeks of pregnancy and are done ‘transabdominally’ which means over the tummy.

The heart and brain can be seen more clearly at this time of pregnancy as the baby is growing bigger.

What structures of the baby can be checked?

The heart, brain, face, spine, bowel, stomach, kidneys, limbs, hands and feet for any major abnormalities.

What other information can I expect?

The placenta position and appearance

Amniotic fluid

Cervix appearance and length

Gender (if you wish)

Is there someone I can talk to about the outcome of my scan?

The sonographers are highly skilled and accredited in the performance of this scan. They will be able to talk to you if you have additional questions or concerns.

What are the indications or reasons for having this scan?

We recommend this scan to all pregnant mothers.

Consultant or Sonographer?

If you are having a normal pregnancy, then in most cases a scan by one of our experienced sonographers is advisable. All our sonographers are fully qualified and accredited, so you are in safe hands.

If however, you are experiencing complications with your pregnancy or need a second opinion, a scan with our consultant is recommended.

Is it easy to make an appointment?

We offer morning, afternoon and occasionally evening appointments during the week as well as weekend appointments. We have a wide range of availability therefore short notice appointments can be easily arranged.

What you will receive:

Immediate results including gestational age and estimated due date.

A report to file with your maternity notes.

Size of the baby charts

Pictures

Short video clips and stills sent via an email of your choice via Tricefy with a copy of your report.

How is the scan electronically sent to you?

The Birth Company is the first clinic in UK to offer this service allowing you to share your pregnancy ultrasound with friends and family wherever they are in the world. This optional recording can be shared via Email, Facebook and Twitter. We will offer this to you routinely at the end of the scan. The transmission is instantaneous as the name suggests. Please note on this system currently there is no sound, only video. It is a national policy not to permit patient or partner's phone recording in a room. Simply tell your sonographer that you would like an electronic transmission of your scan. It will appear on your phone immediately. If you require a longer recording please ask for a USB stick recording.

How to Prepare for your scan

A moderately full bladder will improve the viability of the scan done over the tummy.

Is there an additional cost for a twin pregnancy?

Yes. An additional £30 charge is applied for mothers expecting twins or triplets.

What is the next scan following an anomaly scan?

The NHS may not offer the further scan routinely however a wellbeing and growth scan can be done anytime after 22 weeks for reassurance.

Scans and Packages

Longer Appointments - Time to discuss choices with our expert staff

Read Our Reviews

Thank you to all our patients for considering coming to our clinic.
We aim to meet the highest standards.

' Professional and reassuring '
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time

Helen Campbell

I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.

Sarah Elliott

We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.

Ashley and Tom

Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!

Anna

' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.

Hannah Murphy

' Professional and friendly '
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended

Lyndsey Dilla

' Highly recommended '
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!